Obituaries

James Davis Green of Española passed away February 16, 2026.

Alfonso Duran (Al or Fungi) passed on January 22, 2026. Born in Dixon, New Mexico, in 1937 and raised in Santa Fe and Española, Al led a purposeful life dedicated to his family and the service of his community.

Fedelina Montalvo went to be with our Lord and her beloved husband on February 25, 2026. Born and raised in Cordova, New Mexico, she lived a life full of love and laughter among family and friends.

Martin M. Martinez, ESQ, 76, a devoted family man, veteran, and lifelong servant to his community, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, February 22, 2026, following a brief illness.

10.23.1951 - 2.12.2026

Eileen Juanita Herrera, lovingly known to all as a nurturing spirit, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in Chamita, New Mexico. Born on October 20, 1952, in Ranchitos, New Mexico, Eileen was a beacon of light and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

FERNANDO STEVEN WAR, 40, a resident of Española, passed away on February 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 18, 1985, in Española, NM. Fernando was a beloved father, son, brother, grandson, uncle and Godfather and friend to many. He was employed by Española and Pojoaque Public Schools. Known for his big heart, Fernando was deeply loved by his family and friends.

Jerry Leo Ortega June 7, 1961 Jan. 10, 2026 With great sadness, We announce the passing of Jerry Ortega 64. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He was born in Santa Fe, NM to Leo and Esther. A resident of Albuquerque, NM. with the Love of Chimayo forever in his heart. He was raised in Las Vegas, Nevada most of his youth and early teen years and Chimayo his teenage to adulthood. He married his loving wife, La Verne Garcia Ortega and made their home in Albuquerque. Blessed, with 42 years together. Jerry served in the US Army, worked at LANL,Motorola, Intel, Fed Ex and Kirtland Air force base, with a degree in ITT and Eclipse Aviation. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, spending time with his grandchildren, enjoying dining out, motorcycle rally events, gathering with family and friends, always willing to help others and always ready to have his photo taken. Jerry leaves everlasting memories with all those that crossed his path.

Adriano G. Valdez, peacefully stepped into Heaven on February 6, 2026. This was exactly 3 years and 3 days after his beloved wife of 62 years, Valeria, had departed. We think he wanted to celebrate an early Valentine’s Day! His children and grandchildren were with him throughout the day to pray with him, talk to him and lovingly let him move on to be with Jesus and all his family and friends who had gone on before him. Adriano was born on September 6, 1936, to Antonio and Vicentita Valdez in Cebolla, NM where he grew up and attended school. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served his country from September 1954 to September 1958. He then worked with the NM Highway Department for 25 years. After retiring from the highway department, hestarted his own surveying business, Valdez Surveying. Throughout his lifetime, he had various jobs. He served Rio Arriba County in the capacity of Rio Arriba County Surveyor, was an E.M.T for La Clinica del Pueblo and he also served on the clinic board of directors. He was actively involved in serving the community of Canjilon as a comicionado for the different acequias and served on the water association board. He and Valeria also served as mayordomos for the Catholic Church. He was instrumental in starting the historical restoration/ renovation of the old church in Canjilon. He enjoyed ranching, fishing, hunting and eating Payday and Butterfinger candy bars with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also loved bubble gum. He had many hobbies but especially loved playing the bygone card game of conquian, which is a Spanish form of rummy. Other hobbies included riding his horses Mora, Palomino and Tonto. He enjoyed traveling and gambling in Las Vegas, NV. He loved making red chile and eating. For 36 years, he devoted much of his time to his grandson, Augustine, whom he loved with all his heart.

Milnor Branch, a resident of Coyote, NM, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of Steven David Gutierrez, 46, on January 31, 2026.

Alfonso Duran (Al or Fungi) passed on January 22, 2026. Born in Dixon, New Mexico, in 1937 and raised in Santa Fe and Española, Al led a purposeful life dedicated to his family and the service of his community.